Cane Self Defense: “WHY Are You Carrying That Cane?”

It’s a question all Caners face sooner or later and of particular interest to those new to the Cane Culture. Here we discuss laws, soundbites, and a handy tool all Caners should have in their their wallets :)
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• Cane Self Defense: “WH...

[@revmarcell6449]

I am disabled. I walk with a cane by necessity. I also have a state issued ID for handicapped parking. Only once was I challenged by a “security person “ who was both offensive and abusive. His supervisor was as bad as his employee. Apparently he felt that my changing hands meant that I did not need a cane or other appliance for walking. My lawyer filed suit . They settled. Do not assume that the “security personnel “ or police have any knowledge about your need to carry a cane.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for sharing Rev Marcell- Security can get in a big mess for that. Glad it came to a favorable resolution. - Know your rights, seek legal assistance if necessary, and may you continue walking empowered for all your days!

[@wmgthilgen]

Spinning a cane should only be done in the dojo, at home and during an altercation in which the spinning becomes actually useful. One should never do it in public, it not only draws attention to it, but some one whom isn't paying attention could and would possibly accidently step in to it and get seriously hurt.

[@artawhirler]

"Well, I'm too old to carry a flamethrower around anymore." 😅

[@clamzo1]

"Helps me keep my balance, thanks for asking."

[@noam65]

Really good info. Security is not allowed to ask that question, as it is covered under the HIPA act. Some folks just don't have good balance.

[@tommyjohnson4162]

Completely agree .. I never tell anyone it's for self defense.. but I really do have leg problems.. so I use it for walking

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thanks for commenting Tommy-The Self Defense conversation can drag on as it is a real eye opener for most. Stay Safe & Keep Canin'!

[@DenevZI]

I carry the cold steel city walking stick (stainless steel pommel form), for travel in bus, taxi, arrive to work, or even walk around. People ask me if Im injured or something like that. They don't know about self defense canes or even knives makers (like cold steel). I personally prefer not to spin while Im walking or waiting at streets. In my country, police men are thieves with uniform (yep, banana country) and I pretend a disability in order to distract them. For daily use, the cane is a better option if you live in a town with several wild or aggressive animals (like my town) or drunken guys without respect for others. I like my cold steel, because I can wear it freely better than an another self defense weapon. I practice haidong gumdo too, but a cane is less threatening than a blade or even a wooden sword.

[@vencdee]

Excellent ! I'm training stick/staff for several years now and carrying cane has big sense everywhere and everytime! It's good for bad weather or longer walks and against knife and other short weapons as well !!!

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenitng Venc! Welcome to the Channel and Keep Canin'!

[@larrybear7621]

I started telling people a gentleman always carries a cane. 😉

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

LOVE that Larry Bear! As Doc always says, "Gentlemanliness will NEVER go out of style". - Thank you for commenting!

[@adksherm]

I know this isn't a "new" video, but to everyone commenting different excuses to give for why you have a cane- HIPA law states you do NOT need to disclose a reason why you have a cane. If they take it from you, just fall over and sue the shit out of them. Someone can be sued for even pressing the question of why you are carrying a cane Just never disclose self defense

[@kengrubb]

22 years ago, when I was 32, I bought a cane [from another place]. It has some combative look to it. I trained in TKD many, many years ago, and at the time I got the cane, I was training in FMA. I had health issues back then that necessitated a cane from time to time, and today at 54 I have collected more health issues. I don't use a cane all the time, but I do use it from time to time. I've never been asked about my cane or stopped about my cane by any store employee, security officer, or police officer. I've never gone through airport security with one, but next time I fly I may need to. Very wise words that one NOT spin the cane or otherwise do anything to attract attention. Similarly, I don't think it's wise to try to fake an injury or a limp. If you have a limp, or a stumble in your gait, or you lean, or whatever, then fine. If you naturally have it, and even if it's intermittent, then it's natural. If you fake something, there seems more of a chance for security personnel to take notice of you faking an injury.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Well said Ken! Thank you for commenting and sharing Sir-Keep Canin'! 👊🏻

[@fredbalster3100]

I used a cane during gout attacks. I found that using the cane on either side had equal relief. The hook is great when you have to use both hands. You can hang the cane on your arm.

[@ObservantPiratePlus]

I'm 62, and I've never been asked. If you walk with it like you're not leaning and depending on it, but move it like a "walking stick" (more detailed movements, showing you can make it move smoothly), are usually enough to dissuade anyone from approaching with ill intent, thinking your are weak and vulnerable, I find.

[@gestroud]

I just tell people that I have a "trick knee" that goes out on me sometimes.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you G.E. Stroud and Thank you for serving if that's the case. - Trick Knee answers that.

[@cvlpa]

“I’m old enough to be allowed to and young enough to don’t need to!”

[@thomastammaro693]

Aka.. "mind thine own business"👊

[@regularguy3202]

I am new to this concept. I find it very practical and will continue to learn. Great video.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting and your kind feedback! Welcome to ACSD Cane culture 😎

[@illmade2]

I've been carrying a cane regularly for over 20 yrs, I'm 60 now, and have lived in NY for the last 15 and no one has ever asked me why I carry a cane. Good video by the way.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting and your kind feedback illmade2!

[@52stevedo]

In 94 I had to go to court . I sprained my ankle at work and was walking with a cane . I went through the security check . I had a p38 in my pocket . They confiscated the p38 and let me into court with the cane . I got a kick out of that .

[@christophergauthier5149]

Love the video. When asked by security, I simply hand them my VA card and point out the “service connected” under my pic. Never had a problem. And yes, I’ve used their cans while mine was checked.

[@MrAllmightyCornholioz]

As a person with no disabilities, I don't have a leg problem.... BUT it is nice to have something to walk with if you are walking 5 mi on the streets. Ain't no different than a trekki pole.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thanks for commenting Mr. Almighty! Feel free to let us know ho we can serve you best these days and we'll cover it soon. Stay Safe and keep Canin'!

[@JugglesGrenades]

I'm in good health for a 68 year old man..... when I can't carry a pistol (non-permissive environment) a cane is my alternate.

[@brianbennett7212]

Ironically I used to collect walking sticks & canes. A year ago I was struck with CIDP and had to use a wheelchair. Now that I can (somewhat) walk again, I use a cane for aiding in my rehab.

[@sonny1597]

Three major back surgeries .. fused from L3 to S1 .. carrying the cane is necessary! Doesn’t mean I can’t do other things with it, eh!

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

True Al Maurine-Thank you for commenting and Keep Canin'!

[@thomastammaro693]

AWESOME question, AWESOME ADVICE. I had to re learn how to walk after a hellacious and painful double knee injury and rehab. Early on I started hunting on You tube and found ACSD. " The cane is not an impediment......ITS AN ASSET." ROCK ON YOU GUYS!! 👊

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you Thomas-Right on! Way to turn injury into Victory!

[@thumperthumper5322]

Love the card idea. Personally I think this card should be available for all canes so people don't have to any questions .

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Right on-Thank you for commenting Thumper! Security rarely asks, in the event they do, good idea to have one on hand. Keep Canin, Stay Safe!

[@jeffreyolson2139]

An excellent and informative video Joe. Guys, with the cane you possess the ultimate "under the radar" self defense weapon, why would you "blow your cover" by twirling in public or otherwise showing off? Even if you are young, you won't get too many second glances with a cane. My explanation, for years, is that I have vertigo, specifically "benign paroxysmal positional vertigo". Look it up to understand why this will NEVER be questioned. For those who train with a cane I would recommend studying and adding some principles & techniques of distraction & misdirection, both verbal & physical going all the way back to the principles of metsubishi. Have fun!

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Right on! Thank you for your kind feedback and contributing Jeffrey! Keep Canin'!

[@stanwright8583]

Gets me on the airplane first. LOL. When I have my cane, people give me a little more room to maneuver, hold a door open for me, and a cane is nice for balance every so often. Hope I never have to use it for self defense... but it is handy if the need arises. :)

[@emacarvalho7889]

Others: Why do you carry a cane? Me: Why do you wear glasses? This question is as valid as yours

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Totally fair Ema, thank you for commenting!

[@stevenbinum7659]

Subscribed...glad to see anyone promoting self-defense in a responsible and mature manner.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for your kind comment and following Steven-Welcome Aboard! Stay Safe👊🏻

[@Imafed42069]

Just ordered my raven with engraving and card can’t wait! These videos are very helpful thank you.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Right On JQ! Raven is still our top seller and for good reason-#1 in the self protection category. Thank you for your kind feedback and Keep Canin'!

[@dr.garysavill5318]

Thanks, see you in class.

[@silentwalk1768]

I'm 50 and start walking to the cane 10 years due to an injury use it all the time one day I was checking in self-defense videos and seeing some cane fighting tecq and started learning from there so really nobody asked and I have got quite good at using it for self-defense purposes I've used it twice people backed off as soon as I raise it😅

[@OdeeOz]

_Siatica. _*_Oh, can I have your badge number for reference if I fall, for the subsequent lawsuit?_*

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Ha! Exactly Odee-Great Soundbite! Thank you as always for commenting.

[@TheOriginalRick]

I carry a cane now because I need to. But long before that I carried a cane because I had an intermittent knee problem where my right knee would just give out every couple of days and I'd be grabbing at anything in reach to avoid falling over. Other than that, I could walk perfectly fine without one. To avoid any problem with carrying a cane and using it for self defense when someone might consider that I was carrying it to "hit someone" instead of "needed it" I asked my doctor for a prescription for a cane. He said I could just buy one anywhere, and did not need a script. I told him that if he wrote it out as a script, I could then write the purchase off on my taxes as a medical expense. That was persuasive enough for him to write me one. It is carried in my wallet now. The longer you have a script the less likelihood that some jumped up prosecutor is going to try to accuse you of having a "club" to intentionally inflict damage on innocent people when you actually need to use it for self defense. Of course, trick knees are interesting concepts. They can develop from all sorts of ways, and don't always show up on x-rays or other tests. Might be worth talking to your doctor the next time you see him. (And be sure to complain about it every now and then to family and friends.)

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Happy New Year and Thank you for commenting Rick. You bring up good points. HIPPA law prevents questioning why you're carrying a cane. Can't pry into anyone's health history and shaming for an invisible injury is a no-no. TRAINING which is the real Cane Self Defense equalizer should include mental, verbal, and physical skills to prevent or survive an assault taking the law into consideration which is sorely lacking with most who present Cane self defense these days. Stay Safe and Keep Canin'!

[@dementeduncle]

Once you have the gray hair few ask about the cane.

[@richarddelotto2375]

"My knee hurts today."

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting Richard! -Exactly. Right on!

[@darkpoet3000]

I really like these videos, I've caught myself doing both, spinning and carrying suitcase style. I do like the card, that would make things easier, and nonconfrontational. I look forward to ordering a cane from you guys. I had a massive heart attack February of 2020, and now carry and use a cane. But, I'd really like to buy one that could be used for self defense as well as stability.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting and sharing Will as well as your kind feedback! Always here when you need-Stay Safe, Keep Canin'!

[@pinslayer4579]

Security is NOT ALLOWED to ask why you appear to them to have a physical disability and you can take it anywhere airlines court houses

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Correct Pinslayer! HIPPA prevents prying into medical health history and no one wants to shame for an invisible injury. Thank you for commenting!

[@jupamoers]

I answer "because I need it". When they ask why, I'm not going to answer that unless I know the person. Usually strangers feel entitled to ask your medical history, which is none of their business

[@unclexmas]

I often travel from Canada to the U.S. to teach workshops. I haven’t had any trouble crossing the border with the Raven. Security has never asked why I carry a cane. However, five weeks ago I underwent a hip replacement surgery. I guess that makes me legit. 😃

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thanks for commenting Michael! Same here, never heard of anyone having issues with a Raven which is essentially hollow tubing. Safe Travels and Keep Canin'!

[@davidpaul329]

🎉 AWESOME great job u the man .

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Right on @davidpaul! Thank you for commenting and following 👊🏻

[@sigurdbjrnson1744]

I have always been attracted to walking sticks; started my small collection when I was 20. Now at 70, I have discovered the proper "cane". I have no disabilities and still appear rather ruggedly built. My friends and family know I like to walk with something in my hand. To more casual acquaintances I say that occasional vertigo can throw my balance off, this has happened a few times, I've never fallen, but I do need grab something and this seems perfectly reasonable to them.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thanks for comenting and sharing Sigurd! Stay safe and Keep Canin'!

[@hughbennett5342]

I am practicing for old age!

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

We all are Hugh 😎-Thank you for commenting!

[@jediroo47]

Carry it around the house after work everyday if you can in addition to training. So that way when u go out with your cane you look more natural with it.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Right on @jediroo47! Cane Carry 101- Carry Your Cane!- Thanks for commenting!

[@annoyed707]

Physician prescribed inserts in my shoes.

[@rodericturn6692]

I named my combat cane UTI (Universal Translator for Idiots. So the answer is clear.

[@OdeeOz]

When you look at old silent and talky films, you see a lot of cane spinning in the comedies. Specifically Charlie Chaplin ones ;)

[@stephen579]

I have diabetes and peripheral neuropathy and my knees are covered with scars from falls, so I never get asked about my cane.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for sharing and commenting Stephen! Stay Safe and Keep Canin'!

[@MisterGames]

I have NEVER been asked why I have a cane. Maybe my santa beard sums up the image in their mind of "old guy walking stick, nothing to see here". But i gotta add, whenever I have seen a 20 something with a cane I just assumed he had an injury or walking disability because, as everyone knows, people generally don't carry canes unless they have to for medical / mobility reasons. So, see person with cane and assume medical / mobility.

[@davidwayne9982]

When people ask why I'm carrying my cane? i say- well, it only has one leg and can't walk by itself!! and go about my business...

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Witty and true David-Thank you for commenting!

[@davidwayne9982]

@@AmericanCaneSelfDefense I get all sorts of reactions- but even from angry guys- not ONE violent one or confrontational.. They may smirk, or even comment- but they always walk on without issue.. and THAT is my ultimate goal.

[@dancegod1691]

Just say “my ankle”

[@rokmun680]

Any thoughts as to the usefulness of non-hooked canes compared to hooked canes? Are they comparable in terms of self-defense potential?

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for your inquiry Rok Mun! - The American Cane Arts were pioneered 30 yrs ago with 3 main lines. All 3 agreed, Canes without the J Horn/Crook would greatly limit the potential of the Cane's functional use. So today, ACSD and associated curriculums only use J style Canes. That said, for self protection ACSD maximizes the use of the Cane shaft and as long as the Cane in question can withstand impact inlcluding incoming armed attacks, it would serve the purpose. If an opponent breaks through the PowerShot range and gets their hands on a potential victim, then the Horn design CAN make a difference in getting a quick release response. Ofcourse, assuming the subjet in question is Cane Trained which is the real equalizer. - Stay and Keep Canin' 👊🏻

[@BodaciousWench]

So I won’t fall down.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Absolutely Wendy's World-Thank you for commneting!

[@geraldbaker6339]

I was in a building with a friend once with a friend he was trying to get citizenship and i went with him and the security guard told me i couldnt bring my cane in the building so i had to sit in the car. What do you think about that?

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting and your inquiry @geraldbaker! We think you passed up a great opportunity to educate the security guard on your rights and the liability in "taking away a medical device" or "shaming for an invisible injury". You could request to point that out to his/her supervisor- Our friends at Cane Masters offer the Cane Carry Card which has the law printed on it with #s they can call. This is a rare incident these days, and the proper soundbites educate and let security know you are well aware of your rights. This is assuming, you were carrying a cane with a horn/crook, tip on the floor- etc. To learn how we train Caners worldwide from the comfort of home, please call 800-289-8188-

[@williambarnes4612]

Tell them I don’t answer questions and press on

[@25Letifer]

Respect, love your channel and cane, the card you have, is there a European equivalent? 🍀🇮🇪

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you @Alex Shaw! We have nothing but love and respect for our Irish Stick brethren-Not aware of a European equivalent-will look into-In the meantime, Stay Safe brother👊🏻

[@25Letifer]

@@AmericanCaneSelfDefense thanks mo cara 🍀🇮🇪 I appreciate it, I recently had a traffic accident and I feel vulnerable as I approach my 50s so I want to get your cane, much respect and love from the emerald Isle, you have a friend and allie here

[@kevincorby435]

A Gentleman should always carry a cane, yes I am English lol. Like your Vids, very informative

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

We agree Kevin! Thank you for commenting and your kind feedback, Stay Safe 👊🏻

[@Fredengle]

Hi Master Joe here is a question for you if its illegal to ask anyone why a cane was being carried I guess theoretically if I carried a mini cane and claimed it was a mobility device would you think it would be diffcult to separate you from it accept maybe on an air plane any thoughts please thank you

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for your inquiry Telesforo! What is illegal according to HIPAA is to pry into anyone's medical history without consent. The Cane is a medical device for mobility and ambulation. Whatever Cane you're carrying should fit the description and purpose. Can you walk with a mini cane, tip on the floor in standard or reverse grip? We don't believe it serves that purpose. If you're interested in a shorter Cane you CAN ambulate with, we suggest looking at the ACB 32. See It Here: americancaneselfdefense.com/product/the-new-american-cane-boxing-cane-aka-the-32/ Thanks you for following, Keep Canin' and Stay Safe!

[@TERMINATOR1959]

I notice you always wear a glove on your right hand. Will the indentations below the hook hurt your hand if you do not have a glove?

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thanks for commenting Terminator! He wears on the right hand to prevent blistering spots since he also serves as a hands on bodyworker. Gloves have become part of the Cane culture as have vests, hats, and glasses. They serve a practical purpose but some today may also wear it for the look and cool factor 😎-Stay Safe and Keep Canin'!

[@wilshirewarrior2783]

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that everybody knows…in the navy we had a rule that 10% do not get the word.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Truth Wilshire Warrior! - Thank you for commetning and following and THANK YOU for serving-Have a Blessed Day!

[@Combat556]

IF I were asked “Why do I carry a cane”? My response: Disabled Vietnam veteran.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for serving G Man!

[@steveanderson6180]

In the U.S., medical privacy laws create very serious limits on what you can be asked that pertains to your health or medical history. Say as little as possible. "I have a medical condition" should stop them in their tracks. They're not even allowed to ask what the condition is. Also, in some areas, there are legal issues. I read once, many years ago, that in California it was a misdemeanor to carry a loaded firearm in your car, but a felony to carry a baseball bat if you stated it was "for self-defense". Check local laws carefully.

[@steveanderson6180]

OK, I typed a reply too soon. I'm recovering from a stroke and a cane is required to walk smoothly. I was a drummer for over 40 years (and hope to get back to it) and am a big fan of spinning sticks. but carrying a cane for personal security is a different issue. A good chunk of its effectiveness has to be its low profile as a weapon. The less an attacker knows about your capability, the better your chances. Outside of a possible intimidation factor, spinning should be limited to exercise.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

100% on point Steve Anderson! Thank you for sharing 👊🏻

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting Steve! As it pertains to the Cane, ACSD teaches a very specific type of "spinning" known as Combat Cane Spinning or CaneFlow as developed by ACSD Founder Joe Robaina. Nothing to do with what others refer to as cane "spining" (usually very elemental handling from the horn with little to zero footwork and combative application)- CaneFlow has four levels and goes way beyond exercise. It develops functional components most aged 50+ and those with physical limitaions seek to improve including neuromuscular coordination, kinesthetic sense, hand eye coordination, balance and the applications behind the "dance" are all about personal protection. Empty hand translations are included. This type of Cane training is brain training which can enhance personal protection skills and self preservation. To learn more, please call 800-289-8188 or reserve your no cost call by texting CCC to 305-745-7839. Thanks again and Stay Safe!

[@steveanderson6180]

@@AmericanCaneSelfDefense As I say. I'm definitely just discovering the world of "caning". Before the last week, I was unaware of the culture. At the moment, I'm mostly concentrating on walking, but I can certainly see the value of learning more as I progress.

[@stephennordlinger4112]

Because I broke my back in war.

[@user-ol5rj8qn9o]

How about "I have a medical condition that's none of your business kid".

[@jamescronk3929]

Can you get a card without your canes?

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for your inquiry James. Please call 800-289-8188 to order. Thank you!

[@barmstrong25]

I encourage folks to be careful about using your cane in public secure places. If folks continue to walk through airports and other secure areas spinning the cane I believe the authorities will begin to require a doctor's note you will have to provide when asked by security personnel. Government's are becoming more authoritarian! I use my cane to help in my balance due to a serve leg injury. This means I need it for mobility. I also use it for self defense.

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting Bill! Agree-Thank you for sharing!

[@crguitarkatt859]

I usually answer by saying,, Because I’m Old 👨🏼‍🦳🧑🏼‍🦯 ,,, 😆 Also if you remove my cane I’ll fall flat on my face 🤕. The only bad thing is that , I really wish I didn’t need it. The price we pay in our golden age. 😉

[@AmericanCaneSelfDefense]

Thank you for commenting C R! With training, the Cane goes from being a crutch, to a tool of empowerment. A mobility device that can save your life. Stay Safe!